Britain's New Year Resolution: Intervene in Somalia

by Kim Sengupta

David Cameron describes Somalia as "a failed state that directly threatens
British interests" and will convene a summit in London in February to bring
together the countries currently active in the Horn of Africa state. A
number of key decisions are expected to be made there, ranging from
humanitarian aid to military missions.

The Prime Minister's decision to tackle the Somalia quagmire is seen by some
as being fuelled by the success of the Libyan venture.

Mr Cameron is concerned about tourists and aid workers from the UK being
attacked and kidnapped, the rise of piracy and the potential for the East
African country to become a place of extremist indoctrination for increasing
numbers of young Muslims from the UK. . . .